Imagine a steaming bowl of creamy, spicy pasta that transports you to the vibrant flavors of the African continent. That’s exactly what you’ll experience with this mouthwatering One-Pot Creamy Peri Peri Chicken Pasta. This easy-to-make, one-pot wonder combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious, peri peri-infused sauce for a dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Unlocking the Secrets of Peri Peri Seasoning
At the heart of this dish is the captivating flavor of peri peri seasoning. Originating from Portugal’s African colonies, peri peri (or piri piri) is a blend of chilies, garlic, lemon, and earthy spices that has become a global culinary sensation. Known for its vibrant, slightly spicy, and tangy profile, peri peri seasoning adds a unique depth of flavor to the creamy pasta sauce.
In this recipe, the peri peri seasoning not only seasons the chicken but also infuses the entire dish, creating a harmonious balance of heat, acidity, and richness. Whether you’re a lover of spicy foods or simply enjoy bold, flavorful meals, the peri peri element in this pasta dish is sure to impress your taste buds.
Ingredients for One-Pot Creamy Peri Peri Chicken Pasta
To bring this mouthwatering pasta dish to life, you’ll need a few key ingredients:
- Boneless Chicken Thighs: Juicy, tender chicken thighs are the perfect protein choice for this recipe, as they remain moist and flavorful even after simmering in the creamy sauce.
- Peri Peri Seasoning: This spice blend is the star of the show, adding a delightful heat and depth of flavor to the dish.
- Pasta: Rotini or penne pasta work beautifully, as their shape and texture complement the creamy sauce.
- Heavy Cream: The creamy base of the sauce, which helps bind all the flavors together.
- Cheddar and Mozzarella Cheese: For a luxurious, cheesy finish that elevates the dish.
- Onion and Garlic: These aromatic ingredients provide a savory foundation for the pasta.
- Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and further enhances the chicken flavor.
- Olive Oil, Salt, and Pepper: For sautéing the chicken and seasoning the dish.
With these simple, yet flavorful ingredients, you’ll be able to create a truly remarkable One-Pot Creamy Peri Peri Chicken Pasta that will have your family and friends asking for seconds.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Peri Peri Chicken Pasta
Follow these easy steps to bring this one-pot wonder to life:
- Sauté the Chicken: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken, peri peri seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear the chicken until it’s nicely browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the Aromatics: Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for an additional 3 minutes, or until the onion is softened and the garlic is fragrant.
- Pour in the Liquids: Slowly pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then add the uncooked pasta. Stir well to combine, bring the mixture to a boil, and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow the pasta to cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Incorporate the Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked and the sauce is creamy, stir in the grated cheddar and mozzarella cheese until fully melted and incorporated.
- Serve and Enjoy: Garnish the One-Pot Creamy Peri Peri Chicken Pasta with fresh parsley and serve it hot. Get ready to indulge in a flavor-packed, comforting meal!
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
This One-Pot Creamy Peri Peri Chicken Pasta is a true showstopper, both in terms of taste and presentation. Serve it in a large, shallow bowl or on a plate, allowing the creamy sauce to pool around the pasta and chicken. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a vibrant, appetizing finish.
For a well-rounded meal, consider pairing the pasta with a fresh green salad or a side of garlic bread. The creamy, peri peri-infused sauce pairs beautifully with a crisp, unoaked white wine or a light, fruity red wine.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
One of the best things about this One-Pot Creamy Peri Peri Chicken Pasta is that it reheats incredibly well. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat the pasta on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to help reconstitute the sauce if needed.
For longer-term storage, you can also freeze the Creamy Peri Peri Chicken Pasta. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the pasta in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it on the stove or in the oven until piping hot.
FAQs for Creamy Peri Peri Chicken Pasta
1. What ingredients do I need to make Creamy Peri Peri Chicken Pasta?
To make Creamy Peri Peri Chicken Pasta, you will typically need the following ingredients: boneless chicken breast or thighs, pasta (such as penne or fettuccine), peri peri sauce, heavy cream, garlic, onion, olive oil, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and parsley for garnish. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
2. How can I adjust the spice level of the Creamy Peri Peri Chicken Pasta?
To adjust the spice level, you can modify the amount of peri peri sauce used in the recipe. For a milder dish, start with a smaller amount and gradually add more to taste. Alternatively, consider using a mild peri peri sauce or mixing it with some cream or yogurt to tone down the heat.
3. Can I make Creamy Peri Peri Chicken Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Creamy Peri Peri Chicken Pasta ahead of time. Cook the pasta and chicken, then mix them with the sauce. Allow the dish to cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
4. What can I serve with Creamy Peri Peri Chicken Pasta?
Creamy Peri Peri Chicken Pasta pairs well with various side dishes. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. You can also complement the meal with a light, tangy sauce or a sprinkle of grated cheese for added flavor.
More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
- One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken Over Parmesan Pasta
- Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta
- Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
- Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni
Conclusion
Get ready to embark on a flavorful adventure with this One-Pot Creamy Peri Peri Chicken Pasta! The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious, peri peri-infused sauce creates a truly remarkable dish that’s sure to impress your taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, this one-pot wonder is a surefire hit. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and let the tantalizing aromas of this Creamy Peri Peri Chicken Pasta fill your kitchen. Bon appétit!
Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.
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One-Pot Creamy Peri Peri Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Imagine a steaming bowl of creamy, spicy pasta that transports you to the vibrant flavors of the African continent. That’s exactly what you’ll experience with this mouthwatering One-Pot Creamy Peri Peri Chicken Pasta. This easy-to-make, one-pot wonder combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious, peri peri-infused sauce for a dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients
Boneless Chicken Thighs: Juicy, tender chicken thighs are the perfect protein choice for this recipe, as they remain moist and flavorful even after simmering in the creamy sauce.
Peri Peri Seasoning: This spice blend is the star of the show, adding a delightful heat and depth of flavor to the dish.
Pasta: Rotini or penne pasta work beautifully, as their shape and texture complement the creamy sauce.
Heavy Cream: The creamy base of the sauce, which helps bind all the flavors together.
Cheddar and Mozzarella Cheese: For a luxurious, cheesy finish that elevates the dish.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatic ingredients provide a savory foundation for the pasta.
Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and further enhances the chicken flavor.
Olive Oil, Salt, and Pepper: For sautéing the chicken and seasoning the dish.
Instructions
1. Sauté the Chicken: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken, peri peri seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear the chicken until it’s nicely browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the Aromatics: Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for an additional 3 minutes, or until the onion is softened and the garlic is fragrant.
3. Pour in the Liquids: Slowly pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then add the uncooked pasta. Stir well to combine, bring the mixture to a boil, and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow the pasta to cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s tender and the sauce has thickened.
4. Incorporate the Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked and the sauce is creamy, stir in the grated cheddar and mozzarella cheese until fully melted and incorporated.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Garnish the One-Pot Creamy Peri Peri Chicken Pasta with fresh parsley and serve it hot. Get ready to indulge in a flavor-packed, comforting meal!
Notes
This One-Pot Creamy Peri Peri Chicken Pasta is perfect for leftovers. Store any excess in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to help restore the sauce’s consistency if needed. For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pot Cooking
- Cuisine: African/Portuguese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg